A panel of water experts will discuss proposals to economically move water from the Sacramento Delta to Southern California, at a “Water Talks” forum Wednesday.

The event, sponsored by the San Diego County Water Authority, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and San Diego Gas & Electric, will consider options for water transport from the Delta, which supplies up to 30 percent of the region’s water supply.

The statewide system is no longer reliable, and massive pumps used to draw drinking water hurt smelt and salmon.

Gov. Jerry Brown has proposed a $14 billion plan to realign the system by building massive tunnels below the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

Last month the water authority joined a coalition of environmental groups that say a single, smaller tunnel coupled with water recycling and desalination would free more water for cities and farms. They say it also would be better for the environment and could cost less than half of the governor’s plan.

On Wednesday, officials with the water authority and the Natural Resources Defense Council will discuss that proposal and other options.

The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 20 , at Sempra Energy headquarters at 101 Ash Street, San Diego.

The forum is free and open to the public, but space is limited and reservations are requested. RSVP at